Downing is right for left

Sven-Goran Eriksson believes Middlesbrough's Stewart Downing could hold the key to England's leftsided problem at the World Cup.

The England head coach, answering questions at a fans' forum at Upton Park, said Downing could be ready for next year's tournament in Germany.

Eriksson tomorrow names his squad for the two-match tour of the United States. Downing, who has one cap, is expected to be included, along with Peter Crouch of Southampton and Crystal Palace's Andy Johnson.

Eriksson said: "Stewart Downing could be ready for the World Cup.

"You never know when he could be ready. Before, I picked Joe Cole and waited for him. Suddenly he has become ready, so you never know.

"The left-sided player does not have to be left-footed. It would be good, but there is a small percentage of them. Sometimes you don't find one."